About Pamela S.

I have taught music theory, composition and ear training on the faculty of three universities. I work with several non-profits as an advocate for the careers of young composers. Please see my website for full details

About Pamela

Praised for her "rich dramatics" (The Boston Globe), soprano Pamela S. has earned a reputation for bringing passion, intelligence and style to every performance. Through an international singing career that has included everything from Baroque opera to working with some of some of today's most prominent composers, Pamela has performed with Yamaha Young Concert Artist Series, the Britten-Pears Young Artist Programme at Aldeburgh Music Festival, Operafestival di Roma, Yale School of Music's New Music, New Haven, Helix New Music Ensemble at Le Poisson Rouge, the Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey, Left Bank Concert Society, Beth Morrison Projects, Opera at Florham, American Opera Projects, and many others. In recent years, she appeared on a PBS documentary singing the music of Pulitzer Prize winning composer David Lang, and created the role of

Julia Dehning in the world premier of the opera The Making of Americans at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis. She received her Master's degree in vocal performance from The Peabody Conservatory of The Johns Hopkins University, where, upon graduation, she was awarded The Phyllis Bryn-Julson Prize for Commitment to and Performance of 20th and 21st Century Music.

Ms. S. currently serves on the Board of Directors of MATA, an organization dedicated to supporting young composers from around the world. She is also co-founder, along with award winning superstar composers Lisa Bielawa and Aaron Jay Kernis, of Your Music Bus, and is the founder and director of Stone Mason Projects, a boutique production company specializing in endeavors related to new music for voice. She is in high demand as a voice teacher for competitive students and professional singers, and lectures on the social significance of music history topics related to contemporary repertoire.

Pamela has been teaching music and voice for more than ten years. Currently, she teaches voice and music theory at Rutgers University Mason Gross School of the Arts Extension Division for their Young Artist Program, and is on the voice faculty of the College of Saint Elizabeth in Morristown, NJ. Prior to these positions, she was an adjunct lecturer at City College of New York, CUNY where she taught music theory, musicianship, and composition. Additionally, she spent two years as the chair of the voice department at The College of Saint Elizabeth, where she has taught private vocal instruction, as well as lecture courses in music history, music theory, vocal pedagogy, and ear training.

Pamela's students have performed with Paper Mill Playhouse, Continuo Arts Foundation, Assisi Performing Arts Festival in Italy, Carnegie Hall, Opera at Florham, the Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey, In Mid Air Productions, and many other companies around the East Coast and abroad. Her students have placed in vocal competitions including Mid Atlantic Music Festival, Golden Key, National League of Performing Arts festival, and many others. In addition to her work as a teacher of music, Pamela has worked as a Teacher's Assistant at Columbia University's Department of Astronomy, for the class Theories of the Universe: From Babylon to the Big Bang.

Pamela also maintains a private studio of voice students, and is available to give lessons from her home in Newtown, PA. In the past, Pamela worked for Rider University as a private tutor for students in music theory, music history, and French. Pamela was active in the vocal pedagogy program at The Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University through which she taught voice lessons while earning her master's degree in vocal performance. Pamela has held substitute positions teaching voice and piano at Spotlight Music in Flemington, New Jersey and was on the roster of teachers at Bravissimo Music, a branch of Ivy Bound Test Prep.

*** Lesson Details ***My teaching is goal oriented but always supportive and encouraging. Students can expect lessons to consist of vocal technique building and repertoire study. Lessons are very individually geared towards each student's unique needs and goals. Students who follow my instruction always see and hear results.

*** Travel Equipment ***I expect the student to have a piano, or at least a high quality electric keyboard.

*** Specialties ***classical voice, contemporary music performance

...

Reviews

Kristian July 22, 2015·Singing·In studio

I have had a vocal coach before meeting Pam, but she absolutely took it to another level. Pamela does a good job with teaching the mechanics of singing, as she pin points which muscles the body is using and how to use them properly when singing. She has a variety of warm ups and stretches to get your voice and body prepared to perform and is very good and pushing you to become your best. If you are a serious singer and would like to take the knowledge of your craft a step further, I would definitely recommend.

karen B. May 24, 2014·Singing·In studio

We are so happy with Pamela, she has helped my daughter maximize her talents. Alayna finally was accepted into the singing group at her high school which is very competitive. We are thrilled!! Thanks Pamela :)

Jeff M. January 27, 2014·Singing·

Pamela is a teacher.

Pamela was very patient with my young daughter. She taught her the beginning stages of reading music and her voice became clearer and louder because of the confidence she gained during her sessions. I would recommend Pamela as a singing instructor for any age but she was so patient and encouraging for my young daughter. We loved it.

Pamela S.

Pamela S.

About Joshua M.

Whether your in high school, prepping for placement tests for conservatory, working thru the theory sequence or just want to learn theory to become a better musician I can help out.

About Joshua

Joshua M. earned degrees from the Oberlin Conservatory of music and Jordan College of Fine Arts. He composes and performs with several chamber music groups in New York City.

Bass lessons always begin with 5 minutes of scales, arpeggios or etudes to warm up. We will sometimes take a few minutes to analyze the music we perform, as that helps us understand how to perform it.For beginners the focus is on technique, for more advanced students we tend to focus on how making good creative performance choices.

*** Lesson Details ***Every lesson is different this is just one sample:

10 minutes: warm-up, scales or other technical exercises5 minutes: analyze music to perform, work on music theory and history.30 minutes: work on music

*** Studio Equipment ***Computer, microphones, Sibelius 7.0, etc

*** Travel Equipment ***I

provide sheet music. I expect students to have their own instrument and for electric instruments their own amp.

*** Specialties ***Classical, avant-garde, modern

...

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Joshua M.

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Joshua M.

Philadelphia, PA 19106

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Kevin R.

Lessons are specifically tailored to each student based on ability level, learning style, and goals. Younger children will focus more on technique and fun, but in every lesson it is my goal for my students to grow their own musical sensibilities. Above all, I love sharing with my students the joy of becoming a better musician.

About Kevin

Every student deserves a teacher that is attentive, committed and above all highly competent. I can provide this to students of all ages.

***Background***My initial studies were in jazz and other electric styles, and I performed in a number of varied ensembles. I recently graduated with a Master's degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

*** Travel Equipment ***I bring blank staff paper and other paper materials (music, exercises) to each lesson, as well as my guitar. I will bring a 1/4" cable for electric students. I expect students to bring their instrument and any accessories necessary. A music stand is required.

*** Specialties ***My primary performing instrument is classical guitar, and I am well-versed in the literature. I love teaching jazz, rock, folk, or any other kind of music on the guitar.

...

Reviews

Sara January 24, 2017·Guitar·In studio

Kevin is a fantastic teacher for young children. He maintains a fun and playful environment for them while also explaining things in a way that they can understand. My 7 year old daughter has been taking lessons from him for a few months now and she really enjoys her time.

Siobhan R. January 24, 2017··

Amazing teacher!

Sloan K. January 31, 2016·Classical Guitar·In home

Kevin is very nice and very encouraging!

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Kevin R.

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Kevin R.

Philadelphia, PA 19118

(3)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Pete A.

A thorough understanding of music theory is essential for any student who wants to reach their full potential as a musician. Lesson plans are tailored to fit the student's specific intentions, whether you just want a basic understanding of core concepts or you're preparing for college auditions. Subjects range from early classical foundations to serialism and modern music and even contemporary pop. Theory concepts are applied to the student's instrument as well. All ranges of skill level are welcomed.

About Pete

My name is Pete. I've been playing guitar for over 15 years. In 2011 I graduated from the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston with a degree in Professional Music. There, I spent several semesters studying with Tomo Fujita (former teacher of John Mayer and Eric Krasno). I've also studied with legendary guitarist Pat Metheny and Jack Pezanelli. Stevie Ray Vaughan, Wes Montgomery, and Jimi Hendrix are responsible for inspiring me to play guitar and I specialize in teaching blues and jazz guitar, bass, and piano. I firmly believe that every serious musician should study ear training and music theory and I incorporate these areas in my lessons as long as the student wants to study this way. I've performed with a bunch of great artists in the Boston and Philadelphia area. In 2011, I successfully obtained my master

's degree in Jazz Studies from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. The master's program was an intense submersion in music performance that shaped me into the musician that I am today. I was lucky to study with Don Glanden, Mike Kennedy, and Kevin Hanson. I am also well versed in computer recording software and DAWs. I teach students how to use software programs such as Logic and Reason as well as notation software like Sibelius and Finale. With some basic training in these programs, I can teach a student how to effectively record and produce professional quality recordings so that a student can write, record, and produce their own music.

*** Lesson Details ***Because I've studied with some legendary teachers who have taught some legendary students (like John Mayer), I'm able to pass on to my students the same knowledge that these incredible teachers passed on to me. I guarantee that I will be unlike any guitar teacher that you've had before. Along with instrumental training, I offer extensive lessons in music theory and ear training. My family is full of educators and I've experienced the teacher-student relationship from a young age. I am fully committed to developing lesson plans based on the route that a student wants to take, whether it's just learning the basics and playing along to your favorite songs or engaging in serious study and preparing for college auditions. I am available to teach at any location within the Philadelphia area.

*** Stylistic Focus ***I specialize in jazz and blues. At Berklee, I was able to take instrumental labs that spent an entire semester focusing on the playing style of certain guitarists. I've taken the Wes Montgomery lab, the Pat Martino lab, the Jimi Hendrix lab, the John Scofield lab, and the Stevie Ray Vaughan lab.

...

Reviews

Steve July 6, 2017·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

Pete is very easy going and explains things in a simple and understanding way. I will say I am a little sore from practicing, but it is worth it. Looking forward to my net lesson.

Steve Powell December 28, 2016·Guitar·In studio

Well thought out lesson. Pete knows how to help overcome hurdles for the beginning guitar enthusiast.

Katia B. July 27, 2016·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

Pete is doing a great job! Nice, accommodating and highly skilled.

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Pete A.

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Pete A.

Morrisville, PA 19067

(10)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Stephen R.

About Stephen

Stephen began violin lessons at age three. When his family relocated to Parrish, Florida in 1999, he joined the Florida West Coast Youth Symphony at age six and performed with them for six consecutive years, serving as concert master and assistant concert master. He then auditioned for The Venice Symphony and was accepted at age thirteen, the 2006-2007 season. He has performed with them for three consecutive seasons. In addition, he has also performed with the Sarasota Pops for two seasons from 2006 to 2008. He then joined The South Shore Symphony Orchestra in 2010, and performed with them for their first five concerts and has served as principal second violin. He also has joined Anna Marina Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra and has performed with them for the 2010-2011 season. In February of 2011, he relocated to the South Philly subur

bs and is currently performed with the Delaware County Symphony and the Rose Tree Pops. Throughout the years, Stephen has performed with Elicia in a number of events, including weddings, Christmas shows, and entertainment at restaurants such as the 800 Bay Restaurant and Club.

*** Lesson Details ***My lessons offer an extensive education in technique, musicality, music theory, and most importantly, effective practice methods that increase capability and skill rapidly. I tailor my lessons specifically according to the student's abilities and strengths, while incorporating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Typically, I use the Suzuki and Strictly Strings books for beginner students, and I will then advance to etude studies such as Wolfarht and Sevick in addition to the Suzuki sequels for my intermediate students. Lastly, I will add Introducing the Positions, Mazas, Josephine Trott Double Stops, and solo concertos to my advanced students.

After a few months, my students acquire a well rounded knowledge and feel for the violin and classical music and appreciate the art and beauty music brings to life. They are always strongly impacted and inspired to pursue and achieve higher goals and activities.

*** Studio Equipment ***In the music room there is a piano and music stands, and music available for purchase if necessary.

*** Travel Equipment ***I would bring my own instrument, but would expect my students to have an instrument, stand (or a piano is fine), music (if it is not a first lesson) and a willingness to learn!

*** Specialties ***I specialize in classical violin, and I have worked with the Suzuki Method, but I am also very open to other methods and schools. I also teach varied styles of violin such as fiddle.

...

Reviews

Elicia R. February 12, 2015·Violin·

As a violin teacher, I am impressed by his ability to work with a variety of age groups and skill levels. He relates well to children and brings joy and humor to every lesson, while explaining the mechanics and the physics behind the technical aspect of music to more mature students.

I highly recommend Stephen to anyone who has a desire to learn the violin and a passion for music!

Kim B. February 8, 2015·Violin·In home

Stephen is an amazingly patient and kind teacher to our 10 year old daughter. She absolutely adores him.

I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to any parent looking for violin lessons for their child. He's wonderful!

Michael B. February 2, 2015·Violin·In studio

As an adult student, Stephen provides patience, guidence, and timely prompts. A relaxed style that keeps one form getting tense and frustrated!

Nice location as well! I would highly recommend anyone in the area to take from Stephen!

Stephen R.

Stephen R.

About Tina D.

About Tina

I've been teaching private lessons for over 15 years. I am a high school music teacher/band director and a freelance musician. I'm looking forward to making music with you!

Your lessons are up to you! If you know what you want to learn, I'll help get you there. If you don't know where to start, I can lead you through the fundamentals and help you set goals.

I like to keep things positive in music lessons. Music is, after all, for fun and enjoyment! I like to blend teaching technique and musicianship, while keeping things fun.

If you're a beginner, we'll get started with all the fundamentals you need to begin making music. If you've been playing for a while, I'll help you perfect things you've been working on, expand your musical experience, and help you reach your fullest potential as a musician.

My home studio has chairs, mus

ic stand, and areas for parents to sit in on lessons. Garage band is available for recording. Students need an instrument and books.

...

Reviews

Yanlin January 16, 2018·Clarinet·Online

Elisabeth M. Skaggs February 28, 2017·Trumpet·Online

Tina is an amaziNguyen and patient teacher! My son has loved every minute of having her as a teacher!

Jillian February 5, 2017·Ukulele·In studio

I learned a lot. It was ice to see someone enjoy playing the ukulele.

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Tina D.

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Tina D.

Prospect Park, PA 19076

(21)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Tim W.

From understanding the basis of cadences through the cycle of fifths, to learning about chord substitutions and guide-tones for jazz, a strong knowledge of music theory is important for the composer, improvisor, and performer alike.

About Tim

I earned my master’s degree in jazz studies from The University of the Arts. As adjunct professor of music at Lebanon Valley College, I teach double bass, bass guitar, jazz improvisation, and directs small-group jazz combos. Working with students of all ages, I also teach workshops, clinics, and master classes at high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools in Pennsylvania and Maryland, as well as keeping a private teaching studio out of my Bucks County home.

Lessons are available on upright bass, electric bass, improvisation, music theory, and ear training at all ability levels and all ages, from absolute beginners to high school students preparing for college auditions to adults. Some of my students have been accepted to various regional orchestras and jazz bands, and I'm very proud of their hard work.

While having an outl

ined curriculum to develop my students’ technique, reading, and knowledge of theory, I cater to their interests by showing them how to apply what the are learning to the music that they already know and love.

...

Reviews

Sophia A. October 27, 2017·Bass Guitar·In studio

Tim is a wonderful teacher. He's very knowledgeable and is an excellent teacher.

Larry P.

Larry P.

About Michael R.

I have training in classes such as orchestration, arranging, jazz theory and musicianship all daringly undergrad and masters at university of the arts. I also have studied composition privately for the past 4 years with great composers such as David Bennett Thomas, Norman David and Evan Solot. I've written all kinds of works, big band, classical, funk, you name it! I also freelance as a horn chart writer for many of the local wedding bands and cover bands. I've tutored all kinds of students in theory, transcription, composition, ear training and musicianship at a high school and collegiate level

About Michael

Hello there! My name is Michael, I am a trombonist/arranger/educator in the PA/NJ area. I love music and I love teaching even more. In 2015, I graduated from the University of the Arts with a degree in Jazz Performance and a Masters in music education and in 2016

As a musician, I've toured the U.S a good amount, playing in New York City, Syracuse, Rochester, Burlington, Boston, Delaware, Washington D.C, sharing the stage with all kinds of acts, including Banda Magda, Sophistifunk, Shuggie Otis, Lettuce, Soulive, High and Mighty Brass Band, and many more.

I can be seen regularly playing with EBE LA Starz, Swift Technique, The Phonies, Whoaphat BrassBand, Mad Feather Group and many more. I also perform with my own original jazz group in the Philadelphia/South Jersey area. I also write quite a bit which keeps me busy. I think teachin

g is what motivates me to do all this, so that I can be the best teacher I possibly can!

...

Reviews

Evan April 14, 2017·Trombone·Online

Tailors lessons and learning to what I need!

Evan March 19, 2017·Trombone·Online

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Michael R.

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Michael R.

Philadelphia, PA 19146

(2)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Sophie C.

My goal is to help students understanding the foundations of music. We will study everything from basic key signatures and chord progressions, to understanding how to apply that knowledge to pieces of music.

About Sophie

Sophie has been teaching piano lessons both privately and in a group setting since the summer of 2009. She is available to teach you either online, or at your home.

Sophie received her Bachelor of Music degree in Classical Composition from the Manhattan School of Music in 2012, with a minor in Piano. Sophie is currently pursuing a career as a singer-songwriter.

Sophie looks forward to helping you reach your musical goals and understands that the approach to teaching is different for every student. With her classical background as well as jazz influences, Sophie looks forward to working hard with you while having fun. Some lesson topics might include: learning how to play a song YOU love, learning fun chord progressions, and understanding how to get better at playing piano.

...

Reviews

Jake July 28, 2017·Piano·In home

I took piano lessons for a few months with Sophie. She was great! I progressed from not knowing much at all to being able to play full songs confidently

Dan July 28, 2017·Piano·In studio

Sophie is an experienced musician and educator with a lot to offer her students. She's an active performer in the Philly area and has international credibility. Highly recommended for students of all ages and interests!

Affordable

Effective

Music Theory Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Music Theory instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Graham

"I never thought I would confidently understand music theory, even after years of practice, self-teaching, college electives, etc... I just never felt like

I "got" it. Brad changed all that. Studying music theory with Brad's guidance and encouragement, I quickly began to feel as though I could "speak" music fluently.

Brad is a phenomenal teacher, and can adapt to almost any situation. If I wasn't understanding something, he never got frustrated, he would find a way to explain it differently until something finally stuck. That's very important I think. I've had too many teachers give up and say, "If you don't get this, you never will." Brad doesn't think like that. To him, "just not getting it" isn't an option. If you want to learn something, he'll find a way to teach it to you."

...

Philadelphia, PA teacher:
Brad R.

Review by Henry

"Collin helped me with piano theory very much. He was very involved and awnsered my questions well. He knew what he was teaching and it was apparent he has

a large background of knowledge in his subject field. Very good teacher. Would recommend to a friend or anyone looking for quality music lessons."

...

Philadelphia, PA teacher:
Collin D.

Review by Julian

"Jonathan was great! He captured my son's attention and taught him the critically important basics.
Thank you!"

Philadelphia, PA teacher:
Jonathan H.

Review by Sarah

"I studied music theory with Brad my senior year of high school, and it was the best decision I could have made! Brad fully prepared me for college-level t

heory at a conservatory, and I have excelled as a performer because of the great theory background Brad provided me with. He knows music theory inside and out, and he is able to adapt his teaching skills for any student. Thanks for all your help, Brad!

-Sarah Barrett, Hartt School of Music"

...

Philadelphia, PA teacher:
Brad R.

Review by Jennifer

"Very easy going and patient. Jamie would easily explain concepts that I didn't understand. Also had guitar lessons and he was wonderful! Would definitely

recommend him!"

...

Philadelphia, PA teacher:
Jamie C.

Review by Katy

"Mike is a GREAT teacher!! He is so knowledgeable in a variety of genres: jazz, classical, pop, etc. I needed help with my improvisation and he provided a

safe and encouraging atmosphere while also giving me a ton of useful information. He's a huge nerd (in the best way) and makes a subject like music theory very fun and approachable. He's also just a super fun person, friendly person. He will encourage you while also pushing you to do your best. He explains things in a very clear way, and is very patient. I HIGHLY recommend him for anything - trumpet, voice, theory & arranging, improv, etc. Excellent teacher."

Recent Music Theory Articlesfrom the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Music Theory articles on our blog.

Nervous about the sight reading portion of an upcoming audition? Find out how to work sight reading practice into your routine in this guest post by Saddle Brook, NJ teacher Christian D...
&nbsp;
Be prepared to sight read.
That dreaded requirement on all auditions that makes us all nervous. But the fact is, you shouldnt be! Sight reading is a learned skill, just like everything else in music. Think of it as sight reading a passage from a book in front of an audience. With so many …
Read More

How to Prepare for Sight Reading at an Audition | 3 Helpful Tips

Nervous about the sight reading portion of an upcoming audition? Find out how to work sight reading practice into your routine in this guest post by Saddle Brook, NJ teacher Christian D...
&nbsp;
Be prepared to sight read.
That dreaded requirement on all auditions that makes us all nervous. But the fact is, you shouldnt be! Sight reading is a learned skill, just like everything else in music. Think of it as sight reading a passage from a book in front of an audience. With so many

How to Transition from Classical Pianist to Jazz Pianist

Piano music doesn't have to be all classical, all the time! Here's what you need to know about getting started with jazz piano chord progressions, courtesy of St. Augustine, FL teacher Heather L...
&nbsp;
Thelonius Monk, Herbie Hancock, and Duke Ellington are just a few of the great jazz piano players. What beautiful and fascinating sounds fill our ears when their names come to mind! The seemingly illusive progressions and spontaneous elements, like syncopation and improvisation, sound

4 Painless Steps to Help You Learn Music Theory

Sure, music theory is complex -- but there's no need to fear it! Here, Jamaica Plain, MA teacher Noaa R. shares four steps to get you started...
&nbsp;
Many students tend to avoid studying music theory and harmony. This can stem from a fear of compromising ones creativity with rules and numbers, a failure to connect concepts with application, or from feeling overwhelmed by the perceived volume of material to be learned. However, when you approach theory as an exploratory process that help

Subdivision: The Easy Trick for Reading Rhythms Right

As you're learning to read music, you'll come across complex rhythms at some point. Here, Saint Augustine, FL music teacher Heather L. offers some helpful tips to help you get through the tricky parts...
&nbsp;
Have you ever found yourself sitting in a big concert hall, or in your room, listening to a soloist play a practically perfect rhythm? Almost all of us have, and almost all of us have asked ourselves, "How do they do that?" Their secret is subdivision.
You might be just begin

6 Fun and Unique Ways to Learn Music Theory

Staring at the Circle of Fifths and memorizing key signatures isn't the only way to learn music theory! Here, Brooklyn, NY teacher Liz T. shares some creative ideas to revive your learning...
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Music theory is a very important part of your musicianship, whether it be mastering ear training, harmony, or sight reading. No matter what instrument you play or what styles you enjoy, those who learn music theory grow further as musicians. A solid knowledge can help you improve your perform